CIEH publishes written evidence on the Renters (Reform) Bill

The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) has published written evidence on the Renters (Reform) Bill.

The written evidence, which was submitted to the House of Commons Renters (Reform) Public Bill Committee, will form the basis for the organisation’s work on the Bill during its passage through parliament.

CIEH has welcomed the proposals for a ban on no-fault evictions and for a new Property Portal but expressed concern about suggestions that the proposed Property Portal removes the need for selective licensing schemes.

Selective licensing schemes involve designated areas where privately rented properties have to be licensed with the local authority.

CIEH argues that licensing is a systematic and proactive approach to improving housing standards, rather than just collection of information, and is calling for the removal of unnecessary barriers to local authorities using licensing schemes to improve housing standards.

CIEH has also expressed concern about the large enforcement burden that the provisions of the Bill will impose on local authorities and the need for proportionate funding that is sustained and predictable.

The written evidence contains a list of suggested amendments to the Bill.

Louise Hosking, Executive Director of Environmental Health at the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, said:

“This written evidence, which has been developed through our Housing Advisory Panel, will provide a really solid foundation for our further parliamentary activity around the Bill.

Following our oral evidence to the Public Bill Committee last month, we are determined to continue making the voice of environmental health professionals heard on this crucial piece of legislation.”